Allow me to begin by thanking the people and the government of the host country, the United Arab Emirates, for hosting this important event and for their kind hospitality.

In this conference, the ITU has brought together ICT leaders and stakeholders with a view to establishing work programs and guidelines for defining telecommunication development questions and priorities and to provide direction and guidance for the work program of the ITU-D for the next four-year period. We believe the ITU-D should be given a more prominent role in the ITU, as the development of telecommunications is a vital first step for developing the ICT infrastructure, services, and industry that has become the cornerstone of socio-economic development of nations in today's world. We are now in the era of Web 3.0, requiring ten times higher bit-rates than Web 2.0, and are fast approaching Web 4.0 with an order-of-magnitude higher bit-rate requirements. It is an already established fact that broadband is fostering a vision of empowerment for individuals, communities, industries, countries, and nations all over the world to achieve inclusive and sustainable development goals.

Mr. Chairman, Honorable Ministers:

With much delight, we are witnessing that both the private sector and governments across the globe are accelerating their efforts and investments in developing broadband infrastructures and services. In spite of this, with dismay and disappointment we are also witnessing the widening disparity and the gap that divides nations and communities in a manner that impedes human progress and degrades human dignity. We also believe that ignoring cultural values leads to alienation and indifference of the very same people whose well- being and prosperity were to be furthered via ICT development.

While we are delighted and proud for the achievements of the most advanced economies and affluent societies, we whole-heartedly believe that specific and meaningful measures of solidarity and cooperation by high-income and highly advanced countries are urgently needed for connecting remote and under-served communities around the world. In doing so, the ITU in general, and the ITU-D in particular should play a more prominent role.

Distinguished Delegates:

The Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran fully recognizes the key role that broadband ICT plays in the sustainable development of nations in all aspects. We are committed to expanding our existing infrastructure in a speedy manner so that broadband ICT can be made available across the nation. In doing so, our emphasis is to expand indigenous capabilities through innovative public-private partnerships.

On another issue, Iran's geographical location is strategic in establishing East-West and South-North connections. I am happy to emphasize our commitment to encourage and facilitate establishment of partnerships for ultra broadband corridors across Iran to facilitate and create such connections to complement existing facilities. I invite all interested parties to become partners through investment and collaboration in such projects.

Honorable Ministers, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen:

In all of the above, the global and regional roles of the ITU and other regional and international institutions in taking bold initiatives and in creating international cooperation, be it in the form of technical assistance, in establishing joint-venture and partnerships, or in taking other necessary steps, are indispensible. They can bring impartial and professional advice that is much needed to foster such activities. In particular, we propose that the ITU-D in its work program for the next four-year period establishes a framework through which the potentials of broadband ICT can be harnessed to foster sustainable development by creating grass-root employment.

Furthermore, while recognizing the need for a careful review of the accomplishments of WSIS, we strongly recommend continued implementation of WSIS Action Items and request the ITU Secretary General to carry out consultations with a view to ensuring that the concerns of all stakeholders are taken into account.

Finally, the Islamic Republic of Iran has contributed to the activities of the ITU and regional organizations such as the APT; and will continue to do so in the future. In order to enhance such sincere cooperation, Iran is a candidate for the ITU Council and RRB in the forthcoming ITU's Plenipotentiary Conference, and I seek your support for this candidature.